The testing system simulates hydrostatic pressures found at depths up to 6,000 meters and will be used to test Hydroid's autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and other marine robotics products to ensure their integrity at rated depth. This testing was previously performed at third party facilities; bringing this capability in-house will allow for faster response times and customized testing routines.
"The level of advanced testing this system provides is crucial in ensuring that our vehicles meet and exceed the highest standards for subsea missions," Duane Fotheringham, president of Hydroid, said in the release. "As industry leaders, it is our goal to continue to maximize our vehicles' capabilities, and advance marine robotics technology."
The HTS, manufactured by Telemark Technologies AS, Notodden, Norway, provides unrivalled safety and capability, Hydroid said. The system is 10,000 psig Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure, and capable of testing equipment designed for use in ocean depths of up to 6,000 meters.
The innovative features of the new system include built-in safeties with secondary pressure containment, rapid turnaround time and full electrical and hydraulic interfaces to test the assemblies while at pressure. The internal vessel dimensions are 1m in diameter and 2.2 meters in height. This means the chamber can accommodate testing of Hydroid's complete family of AUVs, including the REMUS 100, New Generation REMUS 100, REMUS 600 and REMUS 6000, which can dive to 100 meters, 600 meters and 6,000 meters, respectively.